A New Hybrid Pulsed Power Circuit Topology for Gas Laser Applications

Abstract

A major decision surrounding the design of pulsed power circuits for gas lasers is the choice between a thyratron and solid-state switches. The thyratron is a mature device technology whose cost is increasing. The ratings of solid-state switches still do not match those of a thyratron. Pulse transformer and pulse compression circuits must be added to overcome the lower ratings of solid-state switches leading to a higher parts count and cost. This article proposes a new solid-state pulse power topology called the hybrid circuit topology to address the parts count and cost issue. The hybrid circuit makes use of a combination of capacitive and inductive energy storage to reduce the time required to transfer the energy from the transformer primary to the secondary side. This ultimately reduces the quantity of magnetic material used in the pulse compression circuit.